To the editor:

 

Native Americans are offended when their identity and culture are used for the names, mascots, and symbols for sports teams. We know this because they and many non-Native Americans have voiced their objections. 

 

Perhaps it's time to respect those opinions and eliminate offensive team nicknames.

 

That said, it makes you wonder if other groups are offended by the use of their identities but never say anything. I happen to be of Irish and Scandinavian ancestry. The Boston Celtics and Notre Dame Fighting Irish use ridiculous looking leprechauns as mascots. The pot-bellied Celtic winking at you looks a bit tipsy — he's probably had a pint or two. The Notre Dame mascot with his fists clenched would rather throw a punch than talk it out peacefully.

 

These caricatures make the Irish look like brawling boozers.

 

Should I be offended?

 

The NFL team from Minnesota and Wareham High School have fierce looking Vikings in yellow pig-tails as their logos. Do we need to be reminded while watching a football game that my forbearers raped and pillaged their way across Europe 1,100 years ago?

 

Should I be offended?

 

The list goes on. 

 

Do the Green Bay Packers disrespect factory workers in Wisconsin? Do the San Diego Padres mock religion with a logo of a friar swinging a baseball bat? Do the Montreal Canadians poke fun at all the citizens of Canada?

 

When is a nickname offensive? Maybe that's a question we should be asking all sports fans.

 

I think Dartmouth High should change its name to the Dartmouth Darts. It's short and snappy signifying speed and agility.  And it won't offend anyone.

 

Bill Callahan,

New Bedford